The infected blood scandal, largely preventable, involved a cover-up to hide the truth, according to an inquiry's findings.

Patients were knowingly exposed to infection risks, and officials attempted to conceal the disaster, including document destruction by Whitehall authorities.

Key failings listed in the 2,527-page report include systemic failures by successive governments and health officials' efforts to obscure the truth.

Ken Clarke and Margaret Thatcher were noted for refusing compensation.

The inquiry criticizes the current government's slowness in addressing compensation.

Whitehall and the NHS are called out for decades of hidden truths.

Former Prime Minister Theresa May's 2017 inquiry announcement and campaigners' relentless efforts were crucial in seeking justice.

Inquiry chair Brian Langstaff is praised for his compassionate and balanced leadership.